LHD Proton Saga CKD Launched In Egypt – 5,000-Unit Sales Targeted For 2025

The Egyptian-made LHD Proton Saga model was officially launched in said North African market late last week with a starting price of E£629,900 (approx. RM55,660.31).

In case you forgot, national automaker Proton saw local assembly (CKD) efforts for the Proton Saga in Egypt commence back in Nov last year. Following which, the sedan was officially launched into the Egyptian market in left-hand-drive (LHD) form late last week.

The localised LHD Saga reportedly commands a starting price tag of E£629,900 (approx. RM55,660.31), or roughly E£120,000 (approx. RM10,603.30) less than when it was a fully imported (CBU) model prior.

LHD configuration aside, the Egyptian-spec Saga is mechanically similar to the right-hand-drive (RHD) model we’re familiar with – it still harnesses a 1.3-litre VVT 4-cyl petrol mill and 4-speed automatic box combination, the former driving the front wheels via the latter with 95 PS and 120 NM.

The LHD Proton Saga is assembled at the The ESAF facility that was built for the cost of a US$50 million investment, and it boasts an annual production capacity of 40,000 vehicles.

The LHD Saga’s assembly in Egypt is handled by Ezz Elarab Elsewedy Automotive Factories (ESAF), which operates a plant located in Cairo. Costing an investment of US$50 million (approx. RM223 million+) to build, said plant boasts an annual production capacity of 40,000 vehicles.

The facility uses locally sourced components, claims Proton in a press release issued to announce the LHD Saga’s launch in Egypt. The automaker adds that there are plans to expand the facility in the near future to include electric vehicle (EV) production, aligning  with Egypt’s Vision 2030 plans.

“Egypt's strategic positioning, bridging the Middle East and Africa, coupled with its vast population and promising market recovery, presents Proton with an exceptional opportunity for growth,” remarked Dr. Li Chunrong, CEO of Proton, at the Saga’s official launch in Egypt recently.

Proton CEO Dr Li Chunrong speaking to attendees at the official launch of the Egypt-made LHD Proton Saga.

Dr. Li also added that for the Egyptian market, Proton’s core focus will remain the Proton Saga. However, Proton is also exploring opportunities to introduce other products, including SUVs and NEVs, when market conditions are right.

Additionally, reports by local Egyptian media sees ESAF targeting 5,000-unit sales for the LHD Saga model it assembles in 2025. The same report also indicates that ESAF is poised to induct another Proton sedan model into this CKD operation next year (2026), followed by an SUV model the year after (2027).

Prior to this new CKD effort, exports of the Malaysia-made LHD Saga to said North African market boosted Proton’s export growth by 31.1% last year, totalling 4,765 units. Additionally, Year-on-Year (YoY) exports for the Saga also increased by 34% from 2,164 units in 2023 to 2,906 units in 2024.

Dr Li (centre) with representatives of ESAF at the official launch of the Egyptian-made LHD Proton Saga model.

“For the past 20 years, the partnership between Proton and Ezz Elarab Automotive has successfully introduced over 18,000 vehicles to the Egyptian market,” adds Eng. Bassem Ashmawy, General Manager of Proton Egypt.

The exec further added that Proton “remains committed” to delivering the high safety, comfort, and modern tech in the firm’s vehicles, and that it looks forward to seeing the new Proton Saga on Egyptian roads as it continues Proton’s legacy of success in the country.